Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta, has tested positive for coronavirus.
Arteta confirmed this himself on the website of the football club.
The development has subsequently prompted the Premier League to announce an emergency meeting for Friday to discuss future fixtures.
So also have Arsenal closed their training ground as a result of Arteta’s condition, with Gunners players and club staff who had recent contact with the Spaniard now forced to self-isolate.
Arteta said on Thursday: “This is really disappointing but I took the test after feeling poorly.
“I will be at work as soon as I’m allowed.”
Confirming Arteta’s statement, Arsenal said: “Our London Colney training centre has been closed after head coach Mikel Arteta received a positive Covid-19 result this evening.
“Arsenal personnel who had recent close contact with Mikel will now self-isolate in line with Government health guidelines.
“We expect this to be a significant number of people from Colney, including the full first-team squad and coaching staff.”
The club is now making efforts to trace those who may have had contact with Arteta.
The Club’s Managing Director, Vinai Venkatesham, said: “The health of our people and the wider public is our priority and that is where our focus is.
“Our thoughts are with Mikel who is disappointed but in good spirits. We are in active dialogue with all the relevant people to manage this situation appropriately, and we look forward to getting back to training and playing as soon as medical advice allows.”
The Premier League said: “In light of Arsenal’s announcement tonight confirming that their first-team coach Mikel Arteta has tested positive for COVID-19, the Premier League will convene an emergency club meeting tomorrow morning regarding future fixtures.”
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